What is Conductor? Definition, Meaning & Example
A material that allows electricity or heat to flow through it easily.
TL;DR: A material that allows electricity or heat to flow through it easily.
Written & reviewed by the Syllab.in Academic Team (CBSE/NCERT subject experts) · Updated
Conductor: A material that allows electricity or heat to flow through it easily.
Explanation
Conductors have free electrons that can move easily, allowing current flow. Metals like copper, aluminum, and silver are excellent electrical conductors. Good heat conductors quickly transfer thermal energy. Poor conductors are called insulators and resist current flow. Copper is commonly used in electrical wiring because of its high conductivity. The ability to conduct electricity depends on the availability of free charge carriers.
Example
Copper wire is used in electrical circuits because copper is an excellent conductor that allows electricity to flow easily from the power source to devices.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a material a conductor?
A conductor has free electrons that can move easily, allowing electricity to flow through it with low resistance.
What is the difference between a conductor and an insulator?
Conductors allow electricity to flow easily, while insulators resist electrical flow.
More Physics Terms
🤖 Stuck on any of these? Ask Syllab's free AI Tutor to explain step by step →